The Effect of Being Born Moderate to Late Preterm on Lung Function and Respiratory Morbidity at 9 to 10 Years of Age

Abstract

Rationale: The effect of moderate to late preterm (MLP) birth (32–36 completed weeks’ gestation) on childhood respiratory health is unclear. Objectives: To assess the effect of being born MLP, compared with being born at term (>37 completed weeks’ gestation), on lung function and respiratory morbidity at 9–10 years of age. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted among children born MLP or at term at the Royal Women’s Hospital (Victoria, Australia). Participants completed pre and postbronchodilator spirometry, measurement of diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, plethysmography, and multiple-breath washout at 9–10 years of age. Parents completed the ISAAC (Internationa..